Campbell University

Willard B. Harris, a former football standout and long-time benefactor of the University, was inducted into the Campbell University Sports Hall of Fame in October 2004.
 
A native of Warren County, Harris enrolled in college on a baseball scholarship.  However, a draft notice and subsequent arm injury ended his career on the diamond.  He enrolled at Campbell in the fall of 1947 and played quarterback on the football team, twice leading the Fighting Camels to a berth in the Eastern United States Junior College Championship game.
 
After graduating from Campbell with his A.A. in 1949, Harris went on to earn both his B.S. in Accounting and M.B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  He has since compiled a distinguished career of professional, church, civic and community service.
 
Harris retired as Vice President for Finance of Tultex Corporation of Martinsville, Va.  A certified public accountant, he previously worked with Peat Marwick Mitchell and Company, Fieldcrest Mills, West-Point Pepperell, and Springs Mills.
 
A long-time friend of the University, Harris was presented the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1987.  A member of the Epsilon Pi Eta and Beta Gamma Sigma honor societies, Harris is a member and past officer of Financial Executives Institute, and a member of the Kiwanis Club.
 
In 1996, he made possible the construction of the Willard B. Harris Baseball Training Center at Campbell University.  Located adjacent to Taylor Field, the heated indoor building provides space and equipment for supplemental pitching and hitting practice during inclement weather.  The outdoor pitching and practice infield permit further development of individual skills.
 
Preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Olema, Mr. Harris passed away December 2, 2019 at the age of 92.